The Kingston School of Dance is the only school in the city that offers the Cecchetti Ballet Method. This method is dedicated to maintaining the standards and method of ballet training established by Cav. Enrico Cecchetti. Students who are committed to a more intensive training program will take several classes each week to learn and prepare the work to an international standard and may be eligible to participate in the examinations, as per teacher recommendation.
Enrollment in Cecchetti Classes includes but is not limited to enrollment in the Aspirant Dancer’s Program(ADP)
THE CECCHETTI METHOD
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KSD offers a pre-syllabus for younger children that will develop poise and musicality in a fun and creative environment. The primary materials were devised to ensure student enjoyment, allowing for creative applications. The teacher directs and leads the students during the examination.
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For students who are looking to demonstrate a stronger dedication to their ballet training. Students in grades I and II will develop proper placement of torso, hips, and legs without exceeding anatomical limitations. The coordination of arms and head are developed in grade III with a concentration on smooth transitions throughout the exercises. At this stage, students begin taking examinations without the instructor.
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A more mature sense of musicality and quality of movement is emphasized in these levels. Students develop strength and stability in the demonstration of the pirouettes and grand allegro. Suppleness and smooth, graceful movements are developed in these levels along with the coordination of the head, arms, legs, and body.
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Intermediate Syllabus marks the beginning of the professional level examinations and links the student to the final three professional levels that demonstrate Maestro Enrico Cecchetti's work. It provides a culmination of the material in the graded work, demonstrating a mature and professional approach. In addition to adages and pirouettes that prepare the student for the more advanced levels, pointe work and the execution of beats are demonstrated in this syllabus.
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The Advanced examination material used by the Cecchetti Canada is maintained by the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, London, England. Cecchetti's legacy and the tradition continue to flourish and survive the test of time in this universal work that is shared among seven Cecchetti Societies across the world. The syllabus demonstrates the beautiful adages, pirouettes, and allegro used by Enrico Cecchetti. It develops strong classical lines, solid anatomical placement, as well as jumps and beats that demonstrate the dancer’s virtuosity. This is the highest level a non-professional dancer may achieve.
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Students interested in dancing en Pointe are required to take this technique class. In the Pre-Pointe class, correct turnout, alignment and classical ballet technique will be emphasized. Students strengthen their legs and feet using a theraband and other exercises to help gain the confidence and balance needed for pointe. Students must be enrolled in two Cecchetti ballet classes at the Kingston School of Dance. This class is offered to the Grade III (year 2) and Grade IV Cecchetti Ballet classes.
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Pointe is a unique and specialized technique. It demands strength and flexibility in the structure of the foot, as well as strong ballet technique. The students need to be a minimum age of 12 or at a level of Grade V Cecchetti Ballet before they are considered for pointe work. Students must be registered for two Cecchetti ballet classes at the Kingston School of Dance, in addition to their pointe class. They must be assessed by a doctor to ensure that their feet are mature enough to work en pointe. Additionally, students will be instructed on how to properly sew ribbons and elastics onto pointe shoes.
Learn more about the history of Cecchetti, the syllabus and it’s methods by clicking here.
Students who are committed to a more intensive training program may be eligible for Cecchetti classes and examinations. Students take several classes each week to learn and prepare the work to an international standard and may be selected for these examinations. Examinations take place every other year.
STANDARD CECCHETTI BALLET PROGRAM
This program has been designed for students to develop enjoyment of movement and dance quality. The Standard class will focus on all aspects of ballet including technique, musicality, and performance. This program will help the students advance to higher grade levels. Students in Grade I must attend class once a week, and students in Grades II and up must register for class twice a week.
COMMITMENT REQUIREMENTS:
PRIMARY (5-6yrs): 1 syllabus class per week
PRE-GRADE 1 (7-8yrs): 1 syllabus class per week
GRADE I (8-9 yrs): 1 syllabus class per week
GRADE II (9-10yrs): 2 syllabus classes per week
GRADE III (10-11yrs): 2 syllabus classes per week
GRADE IV, V, & VI (11-14yrs): 2 syllabus classes per week (+ 1 open ballet class)
INTERMEDIATE (13yrs+): 2 syllabus classes per week (+ 1 open ballet class)
ADVANCED I & ADVANCED II (14yrs +): 3 syllabus classes per week
PRE-POINTE (11-13yrs or at the Grade IV Cecchetti Level): further info below
POINTE (12yrs + or at the Grade V Cecchetti Level): further info below
See the table below for further information about each grade level.